NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey is calling on Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden to pause the proposed reform of the Holidays Act and listen to the concerns of workers.
“The Minister’s desire to introduce a bill to Parliament has got ahead of writing good legislation. We have many concerns about the proposed Bill and have not been consulted properly in its development,” said Grey.
“The Bill as currently written might mean that some workers, particularly vulnerable workers, have their holiday pay reduced. Workers don’t appear to be able to take leave in advance, and their ability to take two weeks of consecutive leave is weakened.
“New Zealanders already work some of the longest hours in the developed world. Burnout and work stress are harming workers and their whānau and costing the economy billions.
“We need to approach change carefully as this Bill will impact millions of Kiwis. Many of the proposed changes seem designed to reduce the benefits that workers deserve during their precious holiday breaks.
“The Government needs to come back to the table, talk with workers and unions, and develop changes that have broad-based support. It does not have the mandate for this Bill.
“There is an opportunity to build an enduring system that delivers for decades to come. Both employers and employees need certainty and a fair deal. The Minister shouldn’t let her desire for speedy reform ruin New Zealanders’ future holiday plans,” said Grey.